SAD Working President Balwinder Singh Bhundar Invites Estranged Leaders to Rejoin Party for Unity

Shiromani Akali Dal's working president, Balwinder Singh Bhundar, has urged unity among party members. He invited estranged leaders to return, following the Akal Takht's directive. After a parliamentary board meeting, Bhundar emphasised the need for unity to strengthen Panthic forces and counteract those trying to harm the SAD.

Bhundar highlighted the importance of unity in Sikh history, referencing Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj's speech during Hola Mohalla. "It is true that there are many references in Sikh history that the quom has always prospered as a community when united. We should learn from the past," he stated.

Membership Drive and Organisational Elections

Previously, Bhundar had encouraged estranged leaders to participate in the SAD's membership drive. He reiterated his invitation for them to take membership slips and engage in organisational elections. This would allow them to elect delegates of their choice, fostering greater involvement within the party.

The call for unity was directed at rebel leaders like Prem Singh Chandumajra, Bibi Jagir Kaur, and Gurpartap Singh Wadala. Bhundar's appeal aims to bring these leaders back into the fold, strengthening the party's collective efforts.

Concerns Over Delimitation Exercise

The SAD plans to attend an all-party meeting on March 22, convened by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin. The meeting will address concerns over the proposed delimitation of parliamentary constituencies. Bhundar expressed worries about potential imbalances this exercise might create across states.

Bhundar argued that states adhering to family planning could be disadvantaged. He noted that Uttar Pradesh might see a significant increase in Lok Sabha seats, while Punjab and Haryana would experience only marginal changes. This situation challenges federalism principles.

Impact on Regional Languages

The Akali delegation will also provide feedback on the Centre's New Education Policy. Bhundar believes this policy could negatively impact regional languages, further complicating matters for states like Punjab.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the BJP-led Centre of using delimitation to suppress political opponents. Mann asserted that like-minded parties would unite against this perceived threat to democracy.

The controversy surrounding population-based delimitation has sparked opposition from various parties in Tamil Nadu. The all-party meeting aims to address these concerns and seek a fair resolution for all states involved.